El Torito Happy Hour 2026 – Times , Menu & $4 Deals

Many websites claim you only have a small window to enjoy afternoon drink specials at your favorite Mexican restaurant. If you read outdated blogs, you might think El Torito ends its deals at 7 PM. That information is incorrect. We checked the official menus and location data to give you the most accurate guide to scoring discounted tacos, margaritas, and draft beers.

What Are the Quick Facts?

Here is a high-level overview of the standard specials so you know exactly what to expect before you arrive.

Feature	Details
Standard Days	Every Day
Standard Times	3:00 PM to 9:00 PM
Price Tiers	$4, $6, $8, and $10
Seating Area	Cantina only
Cuisine Type	Mexican appetizers and drinks

Why Is It Worth It?

El Torito stands out because of its commitment to authentic Mexican tradition and high-quality ingredients. They do not cut corners during the late afternoon shift. You get the same bold flavors and scratch-made recipes that the restaurant serves during standard dinner service.

What Are the Timings by Day?

The biggest mistake diners make is assuming the schedule is the same everywhere. Most locations run a very generous daily schedule, but coastal spots and Sundays have unique rules.

• Monday through Saturday: 3:00 PM to 9:00 PM
• Sunday Drink Specials: 9:00 AM to Close
• Sunday Appetizer Specials: 2:00 PM to Close

Location Exceptions:
A few specific locations run a modified schedule. If you visit the Redondo Beach, Marina del Rey, or Monterey restaurants, the deals are only available Monday through Friday from 3:00 PM to 9:00 PM. Weekend specials are not offered at these three coastal spots.

Is It Available Everywhere?

You can find these afternoon deals at almost all participating El Torito locations nationwide. However, the specials are strictly limited to the Cantina bar area. If you sit in the main dining room, you will have to order from the regular, full-priced menu.

What is on the Menu?

The 2026 menu is divided into four easy-to-understand price tiers. This system helps you track your spending while mixing and matching your favorite foods and drinks.

$4 Tier

• Food: Street Corn, Queso Dip
• Drinks: Draft Beer Pints, Well Drinks, House Wine

$6 Tier

• Food: Guacamole & Chips, Mini Tacos Steak & Chorizo (4), Sopes Grilled Chicken (3)
• Drinks: Signature Margaritas (add $1 for fruit flavors), Real del Valle Tequila Shots, Call Drinks

$8 Tier

• Food: Beef Birria Tacos (3), Chicken Flautas (4), Carne Asada Fries
• Drinks: Watermelon Candy Shot, New Sangria Roja

$10 Tier

• Food: Mahi Mahi Tacos (3), New Wings (Buffalo, Mango Habanero, Ghost Pepper BBQ)
• Drinks: Margarita Flight (Signature, Mango, and Blackberry), Jalapeño Cucumber Margarita, Raspberry Sage Lemon Drop, Grilled Piña

Note: The Sunday menu adds extra $8 items like BBQ Carnitas Sliders, Salmon Tacos, Classic Palomas, and Mojitos.

How Can You Save More Money? (Money-Saving Tips)

You can stack your savings by utilizing the official Xperience Rewards loyalty program. Members earn 10 “Chips” for every $1 spent on food and non-alcoholic beverages. Signing up is free, and you receive an order of Chips & Guac just for joining. You also get a free entrée during your birthday month.

What Are Common Problems?

Even the best deals come with a few challenges. Here are the most common issues guests run into:

Limited Seating

The Cantina area fills up very quickly, especially on Tuesdays and Fridays. You might face a wait if you arrive after 5:00 PM.

Takeout Restrictions

Discounted items are designed for dine-in guests only. You cannot order $2.99 Margarita Monday drinks or $4 draft beers to go.

Brand Confusion

El Torito Grill is a separate brand with a different menu and a shorter 3:00 PM to 7:00 PM schedule. Make sure you are going to a standard El Torito.

Holiday Exclusions

Restaurants usually suspend these discounts on major holidays like Cinco de Mayo or Valentine’s Day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I order from the happy hour menu in the main dining room?

No. The discounted food and drink items are exclusively available in the Cantina area.

Are the deals available on the weekends?

Yes. Most locations offer the same 3:00 PM to 9:00 PM deals on Saturdays. Sundays feature extended hours, with drinks starting at 9:00 AM and food starting at 2:00 PM.

Do all locations have the same schedule?

No. The Redondo Beach, Marina del Rey, and Monterey locations only offer the specials Monday through Friday from 3:00 PM to 9:00 PM.

How much does a draft beer cost?

A standard pint of draft beer costs $4 during the promotional window.

What is the cheapest food item available?

You can order Street Corn or Queso Dip for just $4.

Can I earn loyalty points on discounted items?

Yes. You earn 10 chips for every $1 spent on food and non-alcoholic drinks through the Xperience Rewards program.

Are margaritas included in the $4 tier?

No. Well drinks and house wines are $4. Signature Margaritas fall into the $6 tier, and you can add fruit flavors for an extra $1.

Do these deals overlap with Taco Tuesday?

Yes. Taco Tuesday begins at 4:00 PM in the Cantina. You can enjoy $3 tacos alongside the standard drink discounts.

How do I get free guacamole?

You receive a free order of guacamole when you sign up for the Xperience Rewards loyalty program.

What is included in the Margarita Flight?

The $10 Margarita Flight includes a tasting of the Signature, Mango, and Blackberry margaritas.

Disclaimer

Prices, times, and menu items are based on 2026 data and are subject to change. Exclusions apply for takeout, delivery, and major holidays. Always confirm the current offerings with your local restaurant before arriving.

Ready to Visit?

Now that you know exactly when to go and what to order, it is time to plan your visit. Grab your friends, sign up for Xperience Rewards to claim your free guacamole, and head to your nearest Cantina.